Today, Chelsea Manning was safely released from U.S. military prison in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

Said Chelsea Manning:

“After another anxious four months of waiting, the day has finally arrived. I am looking forward to so much! Whatever is ahead of me, is far more important than the past. I’m figuring things out right now–which is exciting, awkward, fun, and all new for me.”

Chelsea Manning has released her first photo, of her first steps as a free woman on Twitter @xychelsea and on Instagram @xychelsea87. The post accompanying the photo reads: first steps of freedom!! ^_^ #chelseaisfree

A post shared by Chelsea E. Manning (@xychelsea87) on May 17, 2017 at 6:39am PDT

Nancy Hollander and Vincent Ward, Manning’s clemency and appellate lawyers, said in a joint statement:

“We are able to confirm that Chelsea Manning has been released safely from military prison. Thank you to everyone for ensuring her safe release and respecting her privacy as she starts to adjust to life outside of prison and rebuild her life following seven years of confinement. Chelsea has expressed her deep appreciation to her supporters and looks forward to the future.”

Chase Strangio, staff attorney with the ACLU, had the following reaction:

“It is incredible to witness Chelsea Manning’s freedom after having seen and worked with her behind bars for four years. We can all finally truly celebrate the strength and heroism she has shown in surviving and sharing her truth and life with all of us. Through extended periods of solitary confinement and up against the government’s insistence on denying her medical care and existence as a woman, Chelsea has emerged with grace, resilience, and an inspiring amount of love for others. I am humbled to fight alongside such a fierce advocate for justice.”